Colic is especially frustrating for parents, in part, because it’s hard to say what exactly it is that causes it. There have been a number of different theories over the years as to what might exactly be at the root of this frustrating condition, but ultimately the science on colic has been inconclusive.

In fact, most experts have come to the point where they believe that there are any number of possible causes for colic, and one baby may experience colic for different reasons than another baby.

There are  really two primary possible causes of colic that are talked about. Here are the two  most-discussed causes of colic:

1. Gastrointestinal issues. For many decades, doctors believed that colic was all about baby having an upset tummy. They believed that the baby’s belly was still developing and figuring out exactly how to digest food. Accordingly, this would give the baby gas or other intestinal discomfort. This was backed up by the fact that many babies who have colic will either have a bowel movement or gas just before their crying episode subsides. In Europe, to this day many doctors will prescribe simethicone (an anti-gas medication) for babies that have colic. The use of gripe water to help treat colic is also based on this idea.

2. Nervous system issues. There are some experts who believe that colic is more about the baby’s nervous system not yet being fully developed. They suggest that the baby’s crying is a response to various synapses and brainwaves firing off, and is in part a result of the rapid learning that tends to occur in your baby’s earliest days of life. If your baby has colic because of an immature nervous system, there isn’t nearly as much that you can do to try to address it, although some parents have had luck with infant massage or infant chiropractic care. Swaddling may also help an infant in this situation.

Ultimately, the good news about colic is that it will eventually pass. Understanding the possible causes can give you some ideas, in the meantime, about how you can try to treat your baby’s colic, and what you can do to help lessen its severity.

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